Fast-acting, Compact, Piezoelectric Actuator for Control of Mini-Interceptor

"Missile defense could benefit from miniature interceptor technology to handle difficult countermeasure problems and to be able to intercept multiple objects. Reduction in size, mass, and cost of the interceptor compels a new design for projectile steeringcomponents. DSM identified a potential steering actuator system for mini-interceptor platforms while working with ATK. The steering system is dependent on compact, lightweight, high bandwidth, actuators to control the divert thruster components. DSMproposes a novel control concept using solid-state actuator for controlling hot-gas valves that enable rapid trajectory manipulation. The configuration requires a novel piezoelectric actuator driven fast-acting valve. Able to fully open and close at over500 Hz, the fast moving actuator enables rapid dithering of the hot-gas valves to adequately control the interceptor trajectory. DSM proposes to estimate and predict the actuator system's dynamic and transient impulse characteristics using finite elementanalysis techniques and modeling processes. Based on the estimated response and system requirements from ATK, the proposed concept will be designed. DSM will build Phase I prototypes of the actuator system and the hot-gas valve system for evaluation andtesting at ATK in the Phase II program. The actuator technology that will result from the SBIR development will be valuable to the motion control market. DSM will advance the Phase